What is agile? In simple terms, agile means the ability to adapt quickly and easily. Agile software development is also defined in the same way. Although the ideas and concepts of Agile date back a lot, the name Agile was first used in 2001 when an Agile manifesto was created. This document combined all the concepts into one.
Many software companies used traditional waterfall methods to deliver their projects. However, agile software development has been adopted by many companies. It is possible to reap the benefits of agile software development once we have a better understanding of what it means and how it should be implemented. It is worth mentioning a few principles from the agile manifesto that will help you better understand the concept of agile software development. These principles are compared with the traditional approaches.
Individuals and interactions are more important than processes and tools: Agile insists on following processes and tools, but agile places more emphasis on interaction with motivated people who will add value to customers. The only way to ensure customer satisfaction is through communication and participation of the entire team is to follow the processes.
Working software is better than extensive documentation: Agile documentation evolves over time and is not required at the beginning of a project. Traditional methods require that the project be documented in detail before it can begin. Agile, however, believes that working software will provide more value for the customer. Documentation is not necessary at the beginning of a project. There are always changes to the project. Therefore, the document should be updated at every stage of its life cycle.
Collaboration between customers and suppliers in contract negotiation: It is crucial to have a contract that focuses on collaboration among all stakeholders. For the project to succeed, customers and suppliers must have a good relationship.
Responding to change is more important than following a plan. Every company must adapt to the changing environment. They are losing every time they delay adapting to change. They are therefore more open to agile methods that can easily adapt to change. Although planning is an important part of agile, they expect it will change and are open to adapting to this change.
These are just a few of the concepts that make agile possible.
Simplicity: Development should be based on what is necessary. Avoid unnecessary features and applications.
Iterative and time-boxed: The development is broken into sprints based upon priority so that the user can see value addition starting at the end of the first sprint. Each sprint is time-boxed and cannot be modified.
People-oriented: Customers are involved throughout the lifecycle and know what to expect at each stage. The team is empowered to make decisions, which increases morale and indirectly leads to better results.
Change is acceptable: Features can be changed even at the end of the development life cycle. This is an advantage to agile.
These are the basic features of agile. Projects can decide whether to use an agile or traditional waterfall approach. Here are some guidelines:
A waterfall approach is more effective when the objectives and the steps to achieve them are clearly defined. For better project success, it is better to adopt an agile approach if the end results are unclear or subject to frequent changes and the solutions are complex and evolving.
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